Core Viewpoint - The tourism industry is a vital pillar of Hong Kong's economy, driving growth in retail, dining, and hospitality sectors, with the government actively promoting the integration of culture, sports, and tourism to enhance the overall attractiveness of Hong Kong and inject new momentum into the local economy [2][11]. Tourism Performance - In 2025, Hong Kong recorded 49.9 million visitors, exceeding initial estimates and representing a 12% increase from 44.5 million in 2024. Mainland visitors accounted for approximately 37.8 million, an 11% increase from the previous year, while non-Mainland visitors reached about 12.1 million, showing a significant 15% growth [3][11]. Exhibition Tourism - A total of 2.51 million exhibition visitors came to Hong Kong in 2025, a 7% increase from the previous year, with 1.43 million being overnight visitors contributing approximately HKD 10.7 billion in total spending. Over 360 exhibition events were held at major venues [11]. Government Initiatives - The government plans to expand the exemption of departure tax for passengers, including those transiting through Hong Kong, to attract more travelers to spend time in the city [4][5]. - New measures include promoting a 240-hour visa-free transit policy for foreign travelers at four ports connected to Hong Kong, enhancing the appeal of multi-destination travel [5]. Cultural and Sporting Events - The government is collaborating with various stakeholders to create diverse and unique tourism experiences, including international cultural and sports events in 2025, such as the Hong Kong International Sevens and the Basel Art Fair, to encourage longer stays and repeat visits [6][7]. Culinary Tourism - The promotion of local culinary culture through initiatives like the "Hong Kong Good Taste" guide, featuring over 250 recommended restaurants, aims to inspire visitors and enhance tourism appeal [8]. Business Tourism - The government has allocated HKD 1.4 billion for a "Regular Exhibition Incentive Scheme" to support local and international exhibitions, with plans for a second phase to further boost the exhibition industry [9][10].

Core Insights - The cross-border travel and tourism between Zhuhai and Macau have significantly increased in 2023, with over 10 million travelers recorded at the Hengqin port, marking a 32% year-on-year growth and the fastest record since the port's opening [1] - The introduction of convenient travel policies and infrastructure improvements has led to a surge in the number of Macau residents choosing to settle and work in Hengqin, with a 60% increase in cross-border movements recorded this year [2] Group 1 - The Hengqin port has seen over 10 million travelers this year, a 32% increase compared to last year, achieving this milestone 46 days earlier than in 2022 [1] - Domestic tourists traveling from the mainland through Hengqin have exceeded 6.9 million, reflecting a 22% year-on-year increase, particularly during weekends and holidays [1] - The highest single-day traffic was recorded on May 2, reaching 128,000 travelers [1] Group 2 - The establishment of 30 joint one-stop lanes and a vehicle inspection hall at Hengqin port has improved crossing speeds by at least 70% for Macau residents [2] - The number of Macau residents crossing through Hengqin has surpassed 2.77 million this year, a 60% increase from the previous year [2] - The implementation of policies such as "Qin-Ao Tourism Group" and "One Visa Multiple Entries" has significantly enhanced the convenience of cross-border travel, with foreign travelers exceeding 130,000, a 73% increase [2]